406: New hope in treating Huntington's disease and a report card on RFK Jr.'s promises

Unicure has secured a path to submit its gene therapy for Huntington’s disease to the FDA, marking a significant victory for patients who previously faced the prospect of an unethical sham surgery control. This development follows a shift in FDA leadership and sustained pressure from patient advocates, including guest Lauren Holder, who emphasizes the relief felt by the community regarding the agency's newfound willingness to engage. Meanwhile, the Department of Health and Human Services under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faces a complex first year. While his efforts to overhaul childhood vaccination schedules remain stalled by litigation and provider resistance, his focus on nutrition and the reduction of ultra-processed foods has gained broader mainstream traction. Despite these policy shifts, the scientific community remains wary of his leadership, as many of his broader health-related promises remain unfulfilled or lack clear implementation strategies.